Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $200 (2026)
We ranked options by a composite value score that combines material performance, functional features (pockets, waistband, inseam), user-focused design, and retail price under $200
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best budget running option: quick-dry breathable fabric designed for everyday runs
- Best Value: Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist — Best lightweight staple: 5.5" inseam and elastic waist for easy movement and casual training
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best budget running option: quick-dry breathable fabric designed for everyday runs
Lightweight, breathable shorts with quick-drying fabric and built-in drawstring for a secure fit. Customers note quality, comfort, and lightweight feel, with a zippered back pocket for storage
- quick-dry fabric
- adjustable fit
- zippered pocket
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2
Best Value Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist
Best lightweight staple: 5.5" inseam and elastic waist for easy movement and casual training
Soft, breathable shorts with moisture-wicking terry fabric and an elastic encased waistband. Comfortable fit with deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket, suitable for workouts and daily wear. Customers note comfortable, well-fitting cut and quality material
- elastic waistband with secure fit
- breathable, soft material blend
- multiple pockets for storage
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3
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets
Best pocketed gym short: built-in pockets offer secure storage for workouts and errands
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with a 5.5" inseam and elastic waistband. Moisture-wicking terry fabric, with two side pockets and a back Velcro pocket for essentials. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- 5.5" inseam for versatile length
- high cotton content for comfort
- multiple pockets for storage
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4
Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5-inch inseam, elastic waist
Best adjustable fit: elastic waist with practical pocketing for varied training sessions
Lightweight 5.5" shorts with breathable terry fabric, moisture-wicking and flexible material. Comfortable fit with a wide elastic waistband and multiple pockets for essentials
- 5.5" inseam for balanced length
- multiple pockets including back Velcro
- soft, breathable fabric
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5
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" Elastic Waist Jogger
Best jogger-style alternative: elastic waist and practical pockets for comfort and utility
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic incased waistband, 5.5" inseam, and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- elastic waistband with deep pockets
- 5.5" inseam length
- soft 80/20 cotton-poly fabric
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6
Maamgic athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best versatile gym short: 5.5" inseam and pocket layout suited to mixed workouts
Comfortable athletic shorts with a 5.5" inseam, lightweight terry fabric, and breathable design. Customers cite comfortable fit and functional pockets as key benefits
- breathable terry fabric
- functional pockets
- adjustable waist feel
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7
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam with Pockets
Best pocket-focused pick: roomy pockets and mid-length inseam for secure storage on the move
Lightweight, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- multiple pockets including back velcro
- high cotton content for softness
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8
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam
Best no-frills training short: straightforward design with a mid-length inseam for general workouts
Lightweight, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and multiple pockets. Comfortable fit with high-cotton content and moisture-wicking terry fabric; includes deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket for essentials
- 5.5" inseam for balanced coverage
- two deep side pockets + back velcro pocket
- 80% cotton 20% polyester for comfort
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9
Maamgic Men’s Athletic Shorts, 5.5" Inseam
Best cotton-blend option: cotton-poly construction balances comfort and durability for frequent use
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with an 80/20 cotton-poly blend, moisture-wicking terry fabric, and a secure waistband. Customers praise comfortable fit and functional pockets
- comfortable wide waistband
- functional pockets with zippers
- high-cotton content and thick feel
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10
Maamgic men's athletic shorts with pockets and 5.5" inseam
Best everyday workout short: mid-length inseam and pockets that work for both training and daily wear
Lightweight, breathable shorts with an elastic waistband and zip pockets. Comfortable fit with high-cotton content suitable for workouts and everyday wear. Customers note the 5.5" length and versatile style
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- secure pockets with zippers
- breathable and lightweight fabric